Think outside the traditional Christmas gift box.   How about gift certificates from a local hair salon or barber?
Or a gym membership for all who are thinking about some health improvement? (Try not to feel insulted if someone gets you one of these! MY first thought would be- do they think I ‘m fat!))

Who wouldn’t appreciate car wash gift certificates? Or hand made coupons for lawn care or snow shoveling or a golf pass? (Don’t give me the golf thing. I think golf just spoils a good walk.)

Do you like to eat? So does everyone else. Swiss Chalet, Wendy’s or even the Keg if you are super rich,all offer gift certificates.

And what about the promise of breakfast, lunch or dinner with the recipient at at the local mom and pop eatery? After all, eating alone is not that much fun.
How many people couldn’t use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle? Do you have a teen on your list who is saving toward their driving license?

And Moms? Moms would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.
If your computer needs a tune-up, you can find some young guy struggling to get his repair business up
and running.( Think Dan Barratt!)

Maybe you can make something nice or buy something unusual at our many local craft fairs.
And, how about taking someone to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre?

The gift of your time will be the most appreciated thing you can offer.

Special thanks to Sharon Greer for the idea of this article…